Keytruda (pembrolizumab) vs Brukinsa (zanubrutinib)
Keytruda (pembrolizumab) vs Brukinsa (zanubrutinib)
Keytruda (pembrolizumab) is an immunotherapy drug that works by blocking the PD-1 pathway, which some tumors use to protect themselves from the immune system, and is commonly used in various cancers, including melanoma, lung cancer, and head and neck cancers. Brukinsa (zanubrutinib) is a Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor that interferes with the B-cell receptor signaling pathway, primarily used for treating mantle cell lymphoma and other B-cell malignancies. The choice between Keytruda and Brukinsa would depend on the specific type of cancer a patient has, as they target different mechanisms of disease; therefore, a healthcare provider would recommend the appropriate medication based on the patient's individual diagnosis and treatment plan.
Difference between Keytruda and Brukinsa
| Metric | Keytruda (pembrolizumab) | Brukinsa (zanubrutinib) |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | pembrolizumab | zanubrutinib |
| Indications | Various types of cancers including melanoma, lung cancer, head and neck cancer, Hodgkin lymphoma, and others | Mantle cell lymphoma, Waldenström's macroglobulinemia |
| Mechanism of action | PD-1 blocking antibody that promotes immune response against cancer cells | Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor that helps to stop the growth and spread of cancer cells |
| Brand names | Keytruda | Brukinsa |
| Administrative route | Injection (IV) | Oral |
| Side effects | Fatigue, itching, rash, diarrhea, musculoskeletal pain, etc. | Bruising, diarrhea, cough, anemia, thrombocytopenia, etc. |
| Contraindications | Individuals with hypersensitivity to pembrolizumab or its excipients | Individuals with hypersensitivity to zanubrutinib or its excipients |
| Drug class | Anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody | BTK inhibitor |
| Manufacturer | Merck & Co. | BeiGene |
Efficacy
Keytruda (Pembrolizumab) Efficacy in Lymphoma
Keytruda, also known by its generic name pembrolizumab, is an immune checkpoint inhibitor that has shown efficacy in the treatment of various types of cancer, including lymphoma. Specifically, Keytruda has been approved for the treatment of Hodgkin lymphoma after failure of other treatments. It works by blocking the PD-1 pathway, which cancer cells often exploit to suppress the immune system. By inhibiting this pathway, Keytruda helps the immune system to detect and fight cancer cells more effectively.
In clinical trials, Keytruda has demonstrated a significant impact on the survival rates and progression-free survival of patients with relapsed or refractory classical Hodgkin lymphoma. It has been particularly effective for patients who have not responded to or have relapsed after autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) or after two or more lines of therapy. The response rates observed in studies indicate that pembrolizumab can induce durable responses in a subset of patients, making it a valuable option in the lymphoma treatment landscape.
Brukinsa (Zanubrutinib) Efficacy in Lymphoma
Brukinsa, with the active ingredient zanubrutinib, is a Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor used in the treatment of mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) and other B-cell malignancies. It is designed to block BTK, which is a key molecule in the signaling pathway of B cells and is critical for the growth and proliferation of malignant B cells. By inhibiting BTK, Brukinsa can help to halt the progression of the disease and reduce the burden of cancerous cells.
Clinical studies have shown that zanubrutinib is effective in inducing responses in patients with mantle cell lymphoma who have received at least one prior therapy. The overall response rates in these studies have been promising, with a significant proportion of patients achieving partial or complete remission. Zanubrutinib has also been associated with a favorable safety profile and is generally well-tolerated by patients. Its efficacy and tolerability make it a compelling treatment option for those affected by this challenging form of lymphoma.
Regulatory Agency Approvals
Keytruda
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European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union
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Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA
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Health Canada
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Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia
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Medsafe (NZ)
Brukinsa
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European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union
-
Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA
Access Keytruda or Brukinsa today
If Keytruda or Brukinsa are not approved or available in your country (e.g. due to supply issues), you can access them via Everyone.org.
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